How to Dress for a Winter Wedding
<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0><TBODY><TR vAlign=top><TD vAlign=top colSpan=2>If the wedding falls on New Year's Eve, chances are you're heading to a very formal event. Otherwise, check your invitation for clues to expected attire. Evening is traditionally dressier than day, and restaurant receptions are traditionally less formal than country club or hotel gatherings.
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Steps: </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD vAlign=top align=right>1. </TD><TD>Select from the tones of the season, including rich browns, cool grays and basic black. Brights such as tangerine, ruby, sky-blue or lime, whether in a shell or print scarf, will give the winter palette a little kick. </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD vAlign=top align=right>2. </TD><TD>Go to a casual wedding in a wool skirt, a sweater set, tights and loafers. Or pair a sleeveless wool shift dress with a cashmere cardigan, a scarf and pumps. </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD vAlign=top align=right>3. </TD><TD>Step out in a heavy satin strapless dress and a pashmina scarf or in a velvet gown and patent-leather mules if the wedding calls for formal attire. Men might go in heavy corduroy pants and a tweed sport coat for a casual gathering or a dark suit for semiformal, whereas formal functions always call for a tuxedo. </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD vAlign=top align=right>4. </TD><TD>Balance heavyweight winter fabrics with chunky beaded chokers, thick cuffs and heavier earrings. Choose leather or flannel-covered shoes over microfiber and remember: the dressier the occasion, the smaller the bag. </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD>
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</TD><TD colSpan=2>If you're traveling to a climate that's dramatically colder than the one where you live, make sure you have the proper outerwear to brave the winter weather. </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD>
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</TD><TD>You may have to tromp through a slushy parking lot or salt-covered street to reach the event but don't let the elements ruin your shoes. Give them a quick wipedown before you take your seat.
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How to Dress for a Spring Wedding
<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0><TBODY><TR vAlign=top><TD vAlign=top colSpan=2>When the wedding invitation says March, April or May, you could be in for snow, rain or a hot sun. So just how is a wedding guest to dress? Skip the somber colors and heavy fabrics of winter, opting instead to step out in crisp colors and lightweight fabrics.
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Steps: </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD vAlign=top align=right>1. </TD><TD>Consider the time and location of the wedding. Day weddings tend to be less formal than those held after dark, and country club and estate receptions usually call for dressier attire than ones held in a home or community hall. </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD vAlign=top align=right>2. </TD><TD>Remember that dresses for women and suits for men are standard wedding attire. Women might select a cocktail dress for an evening function or a knee-length sheath dress for a day function, whereas men can get away with a sport coat and slacks for a more casual affair. </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD vAlign=top align=right>3. </TD><TD>Skip the standard work outfit. Women might opt for a satin shell instead of a button-down blouse when wearing a suit, whereas men should skip the white or pinstripe shirts and go for a solid shirt and slightly darker tie. </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD vAlign=top align=right>4. </TD><TD>Understand that black-tie or formal attire means a tuxedo or dark suit and tie for men. Women might pair a full-length satin skirt with a beaded shell or a pashmina wrap with an empire-waist gown. </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD vAlign=top align=right>5. </TD><TD>Match slingback pumps with a suit or sassy mules with a daytime dress, ladies. </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD vAlign=top align=right>6. </TD><TD>Feel free to wear black or white, which are both acceptable colors for springtime nuptials. Women should wear a contrasting shell with a black suit or an embroidered pastel cardigan with a white dress. </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD vAlign=top align=right>7. </TD><TD>Skip the satin shoes and light colors if rain is in the forecast, opting instead for darker-toned pumps. </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD vAlign=top align=right>8. </TD><TD>Keep in mind that whatever the weather forecast, an umbrella and raincoat are essential. The spring air can carry a chill, particularly at night, and spring showers are always a possibility. </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD>
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Warnings: </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD>
</TD><TD>Resist the temptation to put on a very eye-catching or attention-grabbing outfit. At a wedding, all eyes should be on the bride.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
How to Dress for a Summer Wedding
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Summer boasts more weddings than any other time of year. If you're sharing in a joyful event this season, heed a few simple rules before packing your bags.
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Steps: </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD vAlign=top align=right>1. </TD><TD>Research the location, as summer in many places means hot and incredibly humid conditions. In this instance choose lightweight fabrics such as cotton and linen to stay cool. Leave the silk at home - although it's light in texture, it's an insulator and may render you miserable. </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD vAlign=top align=right>2. </TD><TD>Check with the bridal party or someone close to them. How would they prefer the guests dress? </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD vAlign=top align=right>3. </TD><TD>Opt for dressy, not formal, if you're unsure. Women will dazzle in a sundress or satin skirt, twinset, sling-back pumps and nice jewelry. A suit is most appropriate for men, with dress slacks, a dress shirt and tie a close second. </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD vAlign=top align=right>4. </TD><TD>Wear comfortable dress shoes. Although you'll sit through the ceremony and dinner, dancing late into the evening is a definite possibility. </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD vAlign=top align=right>5. </TD><TD>Take layers. Summer nights can get cool, not to mention the threat of an overzealous indoor cooling system. </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD vAlign=top align=right>6. </TD><TD>Remember sunglasses and sunscreen for outdoor ceremonies and festivities. Stash an umbrella in the car in case a summer shower dampens the occasion. </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD vAlign=top align=right>7. </TD><TD>Leave the glitz, glamour and sparkle at home. All eyes are on the bride today, so don't challenge her place in the spotlight with a long beaded gown or sexy cocktail dress. </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD>
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Tips: </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD>
http://www.ehow.com/images/bullet1.gif</TD><TD colSpan=2>If you're attending a traditional Jewish wedding, make sure bare shoulders are covered with a cardigan or shawl during the ceremony. </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD>
http://www.ehow.com/images/bullet1.gif</TD><TD colSpan=2>Leave white for the bride. Black is OK; just avoid a look of mourning. </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD>
http://www.ehow.com/images/bullet1.gif</TD><TD colSpan=2>Match your date. Coordinate colors as best as you can. </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
How to Dress for a Wedding Shower
<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0><TBODY><TR vAlign=top><TD vAlign=top colSpan=2>Wedding showers give you one more reason to celebrate the bride and groom. Sometimes whimsical, other times sophisticated, always fun, they allow the bride and groom a less formal means of bonding with their nearest and dearest. What to wear depends a lot on the guests, the hosts and the venue.
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Steps: </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD vAlign=top align=right>1. </TD><TD>Check the invitations for a location, time and menu. Dress up for a hotel gathering with a set menu; keep it casual for a funky-theme shower at a bridesmaid's home. </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD vAlign=top align=right>2. </TD><TD>Pair a bright sundress with strappy sandals and an embroidered cardigan for a dressier spring or summer gathering. Wear a wool crepe shift dress or ribbed sweater dress and heels for a dressy fall shower. </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD vAlign=top align=right>3. </TD><TD>Go casual and comfortable to a low-key gathering at someone's home. Consider shorts, a lightweight twinset and flats for the warmer months and khakis or cords with a V-neck sweater and boots for autumn. </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD vAlign=top align=right>4. </TD><TD>Head to an office bridal shower in your work clothes, unless you'll be attending a dinner gathering in a nice restaurant. Then switch the pumps or loafers for sassy mules, slip a decorative shell under a basic blazer and trade the khakis for a bias-cut skirt. </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD vAlign=top align=right>5. </TD><TD>Go in costume to a theme party if you know the couple has a fun spirit and affinity for whimsy. Wear an apron and chef's hat for a cooking theme, consider a beret and sailor shirt for a wine and cheese party, or go in your pajamas for a bed and bath theme. </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD>
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Tips: </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD>
http://www.ehow.com/images/bullet1.gif</TD><TD colSpan=2>If you're unsure, ask. The hostess will let you know what attire will be most appropriate. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
</TD><TD>Steps: </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD vAlign=top align=right>1. </TD><TD>Think hard about what designs you want. Collect art, leaf through books, and make sketches. A qualified tattoo artist will take what you bring in and transform it into beautiful art. </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD vAlign=top align=right>2. </TD><TD>Place temporary tattoos on different parts of your body until you're clear where you want yours: Tattoos on your back or shoulder may look incredible, but you'll never see them without a mirror. Designs on your arms may be appealing, but you may tire of always having something there. </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD vAlign=top align=right>3. </TD><TD>Consider long-term social or professional fallout for visible piercings and tattoos. While a particular style of body art may be appealing right now, ask yourself: Will you love it for the rest of your life? Will the indulgence of a moment eliminate certain career options down the road? </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD vAlign=top align=right>4. </TD><TD>Evaluate your ability to handle pain. Does a tattoo hurt? Not as much as childbirth, but pain is considered part of the experience. Piercings are briefer. Location also determines pain levels--anything near major nerves (down the side of the leg, for example, or on or near bones) can be excruciating; the bigger the tattoo, the longer your agony lasts. </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD vAlign=top align=right>5. </TD><TD>Ask about hygiene practices: In the age of AIDS, cleanliness is taken very seriously. Artists should wear gloves, sterilize their tools and work space, and use packaged, single-use needles. </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD vAlign=top align=right>6. </TD><TD>Take your time and review lots of portfolios when choosing a tattoo artist. When you see a great tattoo, ask who did it. Look for clean, smooth outlines, and excellent use of color. </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD vAlign=top align=right>7. </TD><TD>Be prepared to pay for an experienced, reputable piercer or tattoo artist. Tattoo artists charge by the hour and usually have a minimum (about $50), but designs can run into the thousands for large, intricate work. Common piercings (including jewelry) range from $50 to $75. </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD vAlign=top align=right>8. </TD><TD>Insist on surgical-grade stainless, niobium, platinum or titanium steel jewelry, or solid 14-karat or 18-karat gold for all piercings until they're healed. </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD vAlign=top align=right>9. </TD><TD>Review all procedures and risks ahead of time. Be clear on the after-care regime. </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD>
</TD><TD>Check the Association of Professional Piercers' Web site (safepiercing.com) for studio recommendations. </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD>
</TD><TD>What to look for: </TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD>
